Michael Brantley helps make young Houston Astros fans day

Michael Brantley was seen handing out Houston Astros gear to a young fan. Is it a sign of what might be to come?

On Monday, the Houston Astros posted an Instagram story of free-agent outfielder Michael Brantley handing new baseball gear to a young Astros Fan. The video originally appeared on The Player’s Alliance account, which is a group of 100-plus Black professional baseball players that are bringing change and equality to baseball.

Brantley, along with Devon Travis and Mychal Givens, were stationed at a drive-thru setup in Ft. Pierce, Fla. The three were helping hand out baseball equipment to young athletes as well as boxes of food for those in need.

The video showed Brantley going to the window of a young Astros fan, while handing him he a new baseball bat, the two had a quick conversation and fist bumped. Brantley told the young slugger, “that this [bat] is for you. Go hit a home run with it.”

Could this be a hint that Brantley might be returning to Houston? Probably not, but his overall good spirit has been a trait his entire career. He is a good hearted individual, and of course he would go and talk to a fan of him and his former team. Brantley does have a soft spot for the Astros, considering they are the team that brought him in after years plagued by injuries.

There haven’t been many reports on Brantley this offseason, but the Astros along with the New York Yankees have been in talks with him. He played 194 games total the last two seasons with Houston, slashing .309/.370/.497 and hitting 27 home runs and 55 doubles. As one of the most diligent hitters in baseball, Brantley doesn’t strike out often and would be valuable in the DH role or left field for any team that signs him.

Some injury issues popped up for the Astros during the 2020 season, including Yordan Alvarez, so Brantley saw more time in the DH role. The free agent is now 33 years old and is looking to sign a new contract. It would behoove the Astros to bring back the All-Star outfielder.

The Players Alliance tour is coming to Houston on January 9th. Go to their website for more information.